Though digital photography is cheap and available to all, there are times and occasions when everyone needs to pay to have a picture done right. One such time is to capture the portrait of someone or a group dear to you. Yes, it will cost more than taking a picture with your point and shoot and then asking a drug store to enlarge it for you. But it will be an investment in the future by recording a reminder of the past. How does one go about choosing a good portrait photographer? Here are eight principles that can help with this decision.
1) Location- Is the studio a convenient distance from your home? Remember that you may well have to go there at least three times. You will need to get the picture made, then perhaps have to return to select a pose, and then, of course, pick up the final product. Ask too, is the building easy to access in terms of traffic and parking?
2) Facility- Is the building large enough to photograph the group you have? One family rose early on a Saturday morning and drove thirty minutes for a promised appointment. When they arrived, they found out the facility was too small to get everyone into the picture. Be sure the studio is established, not just a store front, and prepared to photograph the group you have.
3) Punctuality- You will want to be on time for an appointment. Are they? Are you allowed all the time promised to get the picture right? Are the proofs and final prints available when they say they will be? It might be good to check with others about the reputation of the firm in these matters.
4) Personality- Do the employees look sharp? Is the receptionist and/or photographer friendly? Do they treat you with respect? Are they personable? Are they patient with small children and babies? Are they willing to accommodate special needs people? Usually portrait time means the whole group has been under stress to get clean and dressed and there on time. That means smaller children may show it by refusing to smile. The photographer should be able, under most circumstances, to overcome these everyday occurrences.
5) Skill- Is the lighting shadow free? This is often the one area amateurs are least able to imitate. Also, a skilled photographer should be able to arrange the group so it is balanced, key people are highlighted, and everyone can be seen. They should be able to quickly arrange the group to make an attractive photograph.
6) Choice- A good photographer will take enough pictures so that you have ample choices from which to pick your favorites. How long do you have to wait before the proofs are available? Some companies will allow you to select your favorites while you are there. Are their recommendations motivated by money or what is best for you? Are they able to present the options without making you feel under pressure?
7) Integrity- Is the firm honest? If they promised you one free 8 X 10, will they keep that promise? Are the pictures ready when they said they would be? When you leave, would you say it was a good overall experience?
8) Price- photographs may seem expensive but when you remember that they must pay for quality cameras, staff, and facilities, it is worth the extra expense. Yet, the price should be competitive. Call around to see what the average costs are for the picture you want.
From our experience, getting a good family portrait can be a stressful time, but is worth the investment. If you follow these principles in selecting a photographer, you will likely be glad you had it done professionally.
1) Location- Is the studio a convenient distance from your home? Remember that you may well have to go there at least three times. You will need to get the picture made, then perhaps have to return to select a pose, and then, of course, pick up the final product. Ask too, is the building easy to access in terms of traffic and parking?
2) Facility- Is the building large enough to photograph the group you have? One family rose early on a Saturday morning and drove thirty minutes for a promised appointment. When they arrived, they found out the facility was too small to get everyone into the picture. Be sure the studio is established, not just a store front, and prepared to photograph the group you have.
3) Punctuality- You will want to be on time for an appointment. Are they? Are you allowed all the time promised to get the picture right? Are the proofs and final prints available when they say they will be? It might be good to check with others about the reputation of the firm in these matters.
4) Personality- Do the employees look sharp? Is the receptionist and/or photographer friendly? Do they treat you with respect? Are they personable? Are they patient with small children and babies? Are they willing to accommodate special needs people? Usually portrait time means the whole group has been under stress to get clean and dressed and there on time. That means smaller children may show it by refusing to smile. The photographer should be able, under most circumstances, to overcome these everyday occurrences.
5) Skill- Is the lighting shadow free? This is often the one area amateurs are least able to imitate. Also, a skilled photographer should be able to arrange the group so it is balanced, key people are highlighted, and everyone can be seen. They should be able to quickly arrange the group to make an attractive photograph.
6) Choice- A good photographer will take enough pictures so that you have ample choices from which to pick your favorites. How long do you have to wait before the proofs are available? Some companies will allow you to select your favorites while you are there. Are their recommendations motivated by money or what is best for you? Are they able to present the options without making you feel under pressure?
7) Integrity- Is the firm honest? If they promised you one free 8 X 10, will they keep that promise? Are the pictures ready when they said they would be? When you leave, would you say it was a good overall experience?
8) Price- photographs may seem expensive but when you remember that they must pay for quality cameras, staff, and facilities, it is worth the extra expense. Yet, the price should be competitive. Call around to see what the average costs are for the picture you want.
From our experience, getting a good family portrait can be a stressful time, but is worth the investment. If you follow these principles in selecting a photographer, you will likely be glad you had it done professionally.
About the Author:
Del Haven Studio is the location of a proven Virginia Beach Photographer who specializes in portrait photography. Visit the links now and view slideshows of her work as a Virginia Beach wedding photographer and in other settings.
